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Objectives: Sun‐seeking vacationers are particularly vulnerable to melanoma. Appearance‐based interventions (ABi) showing skin damage of ultraviolet exposure may be a promising prevention tool to improve skin protection. This study aimed to measure and compare the efficacy of an ABi and a health‐based intervention (HBi) on French summer vacationers' behaviours and to identify differences between subpopulations. Design: A cluster randomized crossover trial with three intervention groups (control, ABi, HBi) was conducted in eight campsites on the French Mediterranean coast in summer 2019. Methods: 1355 vacationers of both sexes and aged 12–55 years were included and followed up after 4 days (T1) and 14 months (T2). Efficacy of interventions was evaluated using multilevel mixed‐effect models comparing groups on three outcomes: self‐reported sun protection behaviours, sunbathing and skin colour measures. Protection behaviours were analysed according to subpopulations. Results: Compared to controls, the ABi group had a higher protection and sunbathed for fewer hours at T1 and T2. In the HBi group, the skin colour was lighter than controls at T1. When comparing ABi to HBi, ABi participants had lower exposure than HBi at T1 and T2. The protection of people with a 3‐years university degree was higher in the HBi group than in others groups while that of people with a secondary school certificate was higher in the ABi group. Conclusions: Our study provides further evidence of individual sun protection interventions effect in a touristic setting and highlights the relevance of ABi messages to supplement HBi messages, particularly in certain subpopulations with low to intermediate education levels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Laminin 5, which is found in the basement membrane of dermalepidermal junction (DEJ), is a major adhesive component and associated with proliferating and migrating keratinocytes. In this study, we hypothesized that the topical application of the skin care products containing the novel peptides might restore the DEJ structure by deriving deposition of laminin 5 and promoting the keratinocyte migration. Here, we evaluated the restoration of DEJ by measuring the skin thickness. Methods Single-center retrospective analysis was performed on a total of 13 patients who underwent skin care using Baume L.C.E. (France, Laboratories d' Anjou) between January and March 2021. All patients applied the skin care agent for 2 weeks only on their left hand dorsum. Before the initiation of the application and after 2 weeks, both their hands were evaluated on photography and ultrasound. And the patients were asked to rate their satisfaction with the questionnaire after 2 weeks. Results There was no obvious improvement in photographic assessment and questionnaire. The post-pre difference of skin thickness in ultrasound images was, in left hand, 0.1 -0.37 in distal point and 0.1-0.35 in proximal point; and, in right hand, 0 -0.17 in distal point and 0 -0.15 in proximal point, respectively. The pre-post difference was statistically significant in proximal point (p=0.035). Conclusion Topical application of novel peptide derivative comprising laminin 5 demonstrated cutaneous changes including skin thickness, as assessed by ultrasound. Further studies using other modalities including dermal density measurement, threedimensional photography, optical coherence tomography, or skin biopsy would be helpful to determine the skin-improving effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The public perception of dermatologists, highly relevant for implementing strategies to improve dermatological care, has been scarcely investigated in France, in regard to the background where the number of active dermatologists is continuously decreasing. Objective: This study sought to investigate the French public's perception of dermatologists, as well as the physician–patient relationship in dermatology area. Methods: A sample of 5000 inhabitants (aged ≥15–80 years) of Metropolitan France, seeking medical advice for a skin condition, were invited in July 2018 to fill in a digital structured questionnaire. Results: The sample's gender ratio and geographical distribution proved representative of the French general population. Compared to 33.2% of respondents having consulted a general practitioner (GP), 20.6% had consulted a dermatologist over the past 12 months, the main reasons being a chronic skin condition (37%), surgical intervention (18%) and naevi check‐up (15%). When confronted with acute skin problems, survey participants stated their GP was the first healthcare reference (54% of cases). This may be explained by two distinct phenomena: the declining demography of dermatologists and specific peculiarities of the French healthcare system. Contrarily, the dermatologist was the first care provider for chronic skin problems (47% of cases). On answering the question whether they were satisfied with their last dermatological consultation, 76% declared to be very satisfied/satisfied, vs. 24% dissatisfied/very dissatisfied. Some 78% were given a prescription at consultation end, considered efficacious by 91% and well tolerated by 98%. Conclusion: Our study findings underline the central role of dermatologists in skin care as valued and trusted care providers in France. Further educational and political strategies appear warranted to improve patient referral to dermatologists and decrease waiting times, thereby improving patients' well‐being and satisfaction, as well as care quality provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To test the effect of a new coverlet device, allowing air circulation at the body/underlying surface interface, on skin microclimate management. Method: This prospective observational pilot study took place in a 15-bed university-affiliated intensive care unit. Overall, 34 mechanically ventilated patients were included. Skin humidity and temperature were monitored before and after the implementation of the tested device at the occiput, scapulas, buttocks and sacrum. Humidity and temperature were evaluated through surface skin impedance and an infra-red thermometer, respectively. Health professionals were asked to evaluate the device. Results: After implementation of the coverlet device, there was a rapid, sustained and significant decrease in skin humidity at all sites ranging from 6 % to 15 %, excluding the occiput. Skin temperature also significantly decreased from 1 % at both scapulas, but not at the other studied body sites. No side effects were observed. Health professionals reported that the device was easy and quick to install. Although they did not report a subjective improvement in skin moisture or temperature, they considered the device to be efficient. Conclusion: Although limited by its design, this pilot study suggests a good efficacy of the studied device on skin microclimate management. Further data are warranted to test the clinical implications of our findings. Declaration of interest: The authors have no conflict of interest. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the study was to assess the amount per use of cosmetic products consumed at home by the adult, child and baby French population. 1078 men and women participated in the study which was performed in four cities of France. This enquiry was performed on 106 cosmetics including general hygiene, skin care, hair care, hair styling, make-up, fragrances, solar, shaving and depilatory, and baby products. Coupled to frequency data previously obtained (Ficheux et al., 2015), these amounts per use data will be used in order to assess the exposure to cosmetics by the French population. These current exposure values could be useful for safety assessors and for safety agencies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background The quest for beauty has been a constant theme in human history since the earliest civilizations. The QUEST Observatory, an online observational study, investigated how women continue the pursuit of beauty in the 21st century by examining women's perceptions of facial attractiveness and the strategies they adopt to combat the effects of time on their faces. Aims To investigate women's attitudes toward beauty, aging, and the place of minimally invasive cosmetic procedures and anti-aging skincare. Patients/Methods An in-depth questionnaire was developed by experts in dermatology, esthetic medicine, and social anthropology as the basis for this online, observational study. A nationally representative sample of 1000 French women aged between 25 and 70 years took part in the study. Results The main criteria for beauty were identified as a natural look, self-confidence, and attractive skin. A woman is considered to be at the peak of beauty in her mid-thirties just before early signs of facial aging begin to appear. Approximately 50% of women contemplate cosmetic procedures, but less than 10% go ahead. Confidence in the practitioner and good postprocedure follow-up are as influential as efficacy, safety, and cost in decisions about cosmetic procedures. Conclusions The QUEST Observatory sheds valuable light on factors that affect women's choices regarding strategies for anti-aging and cosmetic procedures. These findings will help esthetic practitioners to better understand their patients and to meet their expectations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A study looked at the representations of skin-to-skin contact among parents and caregivers in seven neonatal units in France and Belgium. Their ways of understanding skin-to-skin contact have some common elements, without completely overlapping. The work carried out could prove useful for professionals who, thanks to it, would be likely to obtain a better understanding and adhesion of the families to the practice of this relational care., (Copyright © 2022 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.)

Background The incidence of skin cancer has risen over the past years, owing to increased exposure to ultraviolet radiation. Sun protection measures include avoiding exposure to the sun, using covering clothing and applying sunscreen. We evaluated the knowledge and compliance with advices about sun protection in a population of patients who had presented skin tumour(s). Subjects and methods A 30 question self-reporting questionnaire evaluating sun protective behaviour was distributed to 217 consecutive skin cancer-treated patients and completed by 198 of them. Results 72% of the responders had presented a melanoma, and 26% of them had presented only non-melanoma skin cancer. The present survey shows that patients who have had a skin cancer were aware of the cancer related risk of sunlight since 98% of the responders knew that ultraviolet radiations can include skin cancer. These patients did also take sun-protective measures because 73% of them had worn covering clothes when in the sun and 59% of them avoided outdoor activities during the midday hours. Conclusion These results suggest that, after diagnosis of a skin cancer, patients limited their sun exposure; and wear protective clothing. However, sun-protection measures did not seem to be completely adequate. An evaluation of the various barriers to sun safety might be a key to understanding the sub-optimal sun protection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Presents several articles on care of aging skin presented during the 'Pearls from the International Master Course on Ageing Skin' conference in Paris, France. Cooperation on the study of the mechanism of action and therapeutic applications of the LPG technique; Optimal survival conditions for fatty tissue; Skin cooling processes used by dermatologists.

Background: Pressure ulcers are a risk for bedridden patients and various supports exist to prevent them. The Pressure Relief Index (PRI) evaluates pressure relief of dynamic mattresses over time. This study compared the PRI of the SUMMIT mattress (AKS-France) and the NIMBUS 3 (HNE Medical)., Methods: In this non-blinded, randomized, crossover, non-inferiority study, patients aged ≥60 with a BMI of 16-35 kg/m2, predominantly confined to bed, able to walk with aid and with pelvic symmetry were recruited from a hospital rehabilitation department from March-April 2012. Exclusion criteria included past or present pressure ulcers, inability to remain supine and deep vein thrombosis. Peak pressures of the sacrum were recorded at 0.1 Hz during a single complete 10-min inflating cycle on both mattresses, with the order determined via electronic randomization allocation., Results: Thirty-one subjects were included and randomized; with 14 finally analyzed in the SUMMIT-NIBMUS 3 order group and 16 in the NIMBUS 3-SUMMIT group. The difference in PRI <30 mmHg between the two mattresses was 13.2% [0.3-26.1] (p < 0.05), allowing a non-inferiority - superiority switch. The SUMMIT mattress demonstrated a significantly higher percentage of time <30 mmHg (p = 0.0454). No significant difference in mean minimal pressure was seen (p = 0.3231) and mean maximal pressure was in favor of SUMMIT mattress (p = 0.0096). BMI did not affect pressure profile. There were no adverse events., Conclusions: Evaluated by the PRI, the SUMMIT mattress had a better interface pressure profile than the NIMBUS 3 in older patients. The PRI is a promising tool for clinical decision-making and research, warranting validation., (Copyright © 2021 Tissue Viability Society. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Background: Advances in neonatology have markedly improved prognosis for premature babies in recent years. However, they have also entailed the need for recourse to considerable intensive care involving potentially iatrogenic diagnostic and therapeutic acts. Among the resulting iatrogenic events, cutaneous lesions are the most frequent but have been the subject of very few studies. Our own study thus aimed to assess the rate of iatrogenic cutaneous events in premature infants born at less than 33 weeks of amenorrhea and hospitalised at Besançon university hospital and to identify the factors associated with the occurrence of these events., Patients and Methods: This was a prospective study carried out in the department of paediatric intensive care and neonatology at Besançon university hospital between May 2011 and April 2012. All babies born before 33 weeks of amenorrhea hospitalised over this period were included. An iatrogenic event was defined as "an adverse event related to a medical procedure". Iatrogenic cutaneous events were reported to the dermatologist by medical and paramedical staff., Results: One hundred and thirthteen newborn babies were included during the study period. Twenty-six iatrogenic cutaneous events were recorded in 19 infants, representing 16.8% of the population involved: nine were associated with ventilation techniques, six with the use of intravenous catheters, five with electrodes, two involved pressure sores, two were linked to the birth, one to disinfectants and one to dressings. The main risk factor was low birth weight (P=0.016). High prematurity and the duration of ventilation increased the risk, although not significantly. The death rate was higher in children with iatrogenic events but the difference was not significant. The duration of hospitalisation was unaffected by the presence or absence of an iatrogenic event., Conclusion: The frequency of iatrogenic cutaneous events is high in hospital departments in charge of very premature infants. Awareness by the medical and paramedical staff of the frequency of such iatrogenic events should improve the quality of care., (Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.)

Announces congresses and conventions on dermatology. Integral Congress on Lasers to be held on June 26-28, 1985 in Bologna, Italy; International Conference on Skin Therapy and Cosmetics to be held on September 4 to October 1985 in Cannes, France.

Objective: To evaluate the efficacy, tolerability and acceptability of a new two-bandage compression system in the local management of venous or mixed aetiology ulcers predominantly of venous origin., Method: This was a prospective non-comparative open label phase III clinical study. Forty-two patients were recruited from 12 centres. Inclusion criteria included ulcers with at least 50% granulation tissue, a surface area of 2-20 cm2, an ulcer duration of 1-24 months, an ankle circumference of less than 28 cm, and no history of deep vein thrombosis in the three months before enrolment. The primary endpoint was reduction in ulcer surface area, and secondary endpoints were the evolution of leg oedema and patient comfort. During the six-week follow-up, patients underwent weekly clinical assessments and their ulcer surface area was measured by planimetry and photography every alternate week., Results: The mean ulcer surface area at inclusion was 7 +/- 6 cm2. The mean surface reduction after six weeks was 58.5%, with 24% of the treated wounds healing in a mean time of 25.9 +/- 9.46 days. The patients considered that the new compression system had a better effect on quality of life, evaluated by parameters such as pain, heat, itching and general comfort, than the system worn before entry into the study. Patient concordance with the new system was excellent and 86% of leg ulcers improved or healed after six weeks. Local tolerance was considered very good., Conclusion: This new two-bandage compression system is effective and well accepted by patients.

Objective: To evaluate concordance with compression therapy in ambulatory patients with venous leg ulcers., Method: This was a prospective observational survey conducted in general practice. Consecutive patients with venous leg ulcers about to receive a non-adherent primary dressing and with no contraindication to compression bandaging were selected. At the inclusion visit, size, local aspect of the ulcer and the peri-ulcer skin were scored. Patients were asked about concordance with compression and were given a questionnaire to be completed at home. If patients were seen at a three-week follow-up visit, ulcer and peri-ulcer characteristics and concordance were reassessed., Results: A total of 2842 patients were included, of whom 2532 were re-evaluated at three weeks and 1397 (49%) returned their questionnaire. A compression bandage was already available for 62.9% of these patients, and 62.7% said they used it on a daily basis, 23.3% wore it one or two days per week and 13.7% wore it irregularly or never. There was a statistically significant correlation between concordance with compression and ulcer and peri-ulcer skin severity scores (p < 0.001 and p = 0.042 respectively). At the follow-up visit, concordance with compression therapy improved (80.1% were wearing it regularly). Ulcer, peri-ulcer skin severity scores and ulcer size were significantly lower (p < 0.001) when concordance with compression therapy was good. However, 65.6% of patients considered applying compression very difficult; 45% considered it very unaesthetic and 23% judge wearing it to be very painful, while 9% thought it may worsen their ulcer., Conclusion: On a short-term basis, concordance with compression can be substantially improved by simple measures with a clear favourable consequence on both ulcer status and peri-ulcer skin aspect when a non-adherent primary dressing is used. However, the acceptability of compression to patients is poor, and continuous effort is required to convince them of its importance.